What is the effect of higher water temperatures on dissolved oxygen levels?

Higher water temperatures lead to a decrease in dissolved oxygen levels. This phenomenon occurs because warmer water has a lower capacity to hold oxygen compared to cooler water. As the temperature of water increases, the solubility of gases, including oxygen, diminishes. Consequently, aquatic organisms may experience stress due to insufficient oxygen, impacting their health and overall ecosystem balance.

In colder water, oxygen dissolves more effectively, which supports a greater diversity of aquatic life. As temperatures rise, particularly in summer months or in habitats affected by climate change, the reduction in dissolved oxygen can lead to hypoxic conditions. This is detrimental, especially in areas with high biological oxygen demands, where the oxygen required for respiration may exceed the available dissolved oxygen, leading to the death of fish and other aquatic organisms. Understanding this relationship is crucial for managing aquatic environments and maintaining healthy ecosystems.